borderline crazy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "borderline crazy" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that is on the edge of being considered crazy or irrational, often in a humorous or exaggerated context. Example: "Her obsession with collecting every single type of doll is borderline crazy, but we love her passion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

But judging from the unscientific — borderline crazy — statements opposing abortion that we're hearing lately, there is reason to believe that this delicate balance could be threatened if Mitt Romney and Representative Paul Ryan, and their even more extreme allies, get elected.

The New York Times

All of this will be fuel for visitors to get down to the sounds of Texas country musicians including Kevin Fowler, whose song "Borderline Crazy" includes this relevant lyric: "Got these blue-collar blues and I can't sleep / Been counting margaritas instead of sheep".

The New York Times

Yes, I am borderline crazy.

Huffington Post

Who likes to admit that they're borderline crazy?

Huffington Post

Don't get me wrong: I love eccentric, whacko, borderline crazy characters as much as the next person.

Huffington Post

In truth, the inclination of humans to fight unnecessary wars is evidence that the human species is borderline crazy.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

The great directors – Huston, Ford, Hawks, Peckinpah – were ornery old dogs, barkers and borderline crazies, unbound by the need to be liked, howling at the moon to get their vision in place.

The Guardian - Film

In almost every way, she's a monster, and borderline-crazy, yet Theron makes her so desperately miserable — and so courageous in her mistakes — that we wind up sympathizing with her; we almost like her.

The New Yorker

She is a devout foodhist and has a borderline-crazy obsession with taking pictures of nearly everything she eats.

Huffington Post

Neither scientist contributed anything to our understanding of human genetics or the origins of human intelligence, but they each created an awful public commotion and so found themselves a place in the history of the borderline-crazy eugenics movement started by Francis Galton.

Huffington Post

They can be a bit promiscuous, borderline alcoholic and crazy.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "borderline crazy" to describe situations or behaviors that are eccentric or unconventional, rather than to diagnose mental illness. It's often employed for humorous or exaggerated effect.

Common error

Avoid using "borderline crazy" in professional or academic writing where a more precise and respectful term is required. Instead, opt for phrases like "eccentric", "unconventional", or "slightly irrational" depending on the specific context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "borderline crazy" functions as a descriptive adjective phrase. It modifies a noun to indicate that something or someone is close to being considered crazy but not fully meeting the criteria. Ludwig confirms its usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

86%

Wiki

9%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "borderline crazy" is a descriptive adjective phrase that denotes something or someone nearing a state of irrationality or madness. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is correct and usable, commonly employed in informal contexts like news and media to describe eccentric or unconventional behaviors. While grammatically sound, it is advisable to use more precise and respectful alternatives in formal or professional settings. Related phrases include "verging on madness" and "nearly irrational". Overall, use "borderline crazy" judiciously to add color to your language while remaining mindful of your audience and the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

verging on madness

Indicates a state very close to being completely mad.

close to insane

Emphasizes proximity to a state of insanity.

nearly irrational

Focuses on the lack of reason or logic in behavior or thought.

borderline deranged

Highlights a state of being mentally unbalanced, close to derangement.

on the verge of lunacy

Suggests an impending descent into madness or foolishness.

almost unhinged

Implies a loss of emotional stability and control.

approaching mania

Indicates a state nearing extreme enthusiasm or obsession.

tantamount to madness

Highlights behavior that is virtually equivalent to actual madness.

akin to insanity

Draws a comparison to insanity, suggesting a strong resemblance.

slightly unhinged

Suggests a mild form of mental instability.

FAQs

How can I use "borderline crazy" in a sentence?

You can use "borderline crazy" to describe someone or something that is on the edge of being considered crazy or irrational. For example, "Her dedication to collecting stamps is "borderline crazy", but it's her passion".

What's a less informal way to say "borderline crazy"?

If you're looking for a more formal alternative, consider using phrases like "almost irrational" or "nearly insane". The best choice depends on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "borderline crazy" in professional settings?

Generally, no. "Borderline crazy" is informal and may be perceived as insensitive. In professional settings, opt for alternatives such as "unconventional" or "eccentric", depending on the context.

What's the difference between "borderline crazy" and "insane"?

"Borderline crazy" suggests a state close to being insane but not quite reaching that level. "Insane" implies a more severe and established state of mental instability. Thus, "borderline crazy" is less extreme.